As much as I love the metallic pumps (the red is one of my HGs!), I'd say definitely go for the Valentinos. I'm falling hopelessly in love with those too.
ITA with everyone that you should just get the Valentinos! Who cares whether they have red soles. I have been eyeing that style for a while, too - I love the Valentino bow!
i personally dont buy CL for the red soles. i was originally attracted to CLs for the soles, but since they opened the gates to designer shoes for me, i realised that other designers have really gorgeous shoes too, so i buy what catches my eye.
Don't buy CLs for the red sole, of all things. Buy them because a style really speaks to you, much as it sounds like these Valentino pumps did.
I originally started buying CLs, and have continued to do so, because of the classy, yet unique designs. The Louboutin VP (just a classic platform peeptoe) is one example. I've never seen another peeptoe that compares.
Is it shallow that I love the flash of red? If I were to say that the red soles isn't a portion of the attraction (not the sole reason for attraction but it is a component) I would be lying.